Transportation apparatus for electrochemical energy storage apparatuses

ABSTRACT

The invention relates to a transportation apparatus for hazardous materials, in particular for at least one electrochemical energy storage apparatus, having at least one accommodation apparatus for accommodating the hazardous material, said accommodation apparatus having at least one accommodation chamber; and at least one barrier device which screens the accommodation chamber at least in sections in at least one direction, wherein the barrier device has at least a first material and at least a second material, and said invention also relates to the production and use of said transportation apparatus.

The entire content of priority application DE 10 2011 009 696.5 isherewith incorporated in the present application by reference.

DESCRIPTION

The present invention relates to a transportation apparatus,particularly for transporting, retrieving, storing and holdingelectrochemical energy storage apparatuses, more particularly lithiumion cells or lithium ion batteries, and further relates to the processesfor production and use thereof.

The following specific hazards are known particularly in the case oflithium ion batteries and lithium ion cells: leakage of the liquidelectrolyte, short circuit, fire or explosion. In order to reduce theserisks, such cells and batteries often comprise adapted housings, whichincrease their reliability. Such are described for example in EP 2 180537 A1.

Consequently, measures have to be taken during the storage and transportof electrochemical energy storage apparatuses that in particular reduceor eliminate the risk of the contents escaping into the environmentunder normal storage or transport conditions. Furthermore, the hazardsduring storage and transport of electrochemical energy storage devicesare posed not only “from the inside”, that is to say by theelectrochemical energy storage devices themselves. “External” hazardsmust also be considered. For example, if a fire breaks out as a resultof a traffic accident, steps must be taken to ensure that chargedlithium-ion batteries are protected from the fire and remain undamagedto the extent possible. Simple packaging, such as cardboard boxes, arenot suitable for this purpose, Instead, holding apparatuses are requiredthat safeguard electrochemical energy storage apparatuses duringstoring, and particularly during packing and transportation thereof, toreduce the risk of contaminating the environment by the cargo. The sameapplies in reverse order.

Particularly the new requirements (highest possible performance for thelowest possible weight and smallest size) imposed on electrochemicalenergy storage apparatuses that may be used as energy sources inelectrically driven vehicles, mean that the transport thereof,particularly in the case of damaged or defective items, entails greaterrisk. In the event of a fire caused by a traffic accident for example(risk from “outside”) or a short-circuit in the battery (risk from“inside”), very violent decomposition reactions with even explosiveforce may occur, thereby forming toxic and environmentally hazardousgases such as chlorine or sulphur dioxide. Particularly in lithium-ionbatteries, approximately 10 times more energy is stored as thermalenergy than as electrical energy. In addition, high temperatures maycause decomposition of the cathode material, which is often in the formof a lithium metal oxide. This decomposition may result in the releaseof oxygen, which in turn may function as an accelerant. Lithium-metalanodes also represent a significant fire hazard.

For these reasons, transport of such electrochemical energy storageapparatuses is generally subject to strict regulations, which aresummarised in the following and other directives, most of which areapplicable throughout Europe:

-   ADR: European Agreement concerning the International Carriage of    Dangerous Goods by Road-   RID: European Convention concerning International Carriage by Rail-   IMDG Code: International Maritime Dangerous Goods Code-   ADN: European Agreement concerning the International Carriage of    Dangerous Goods by Inland Waterways-   ICAO-TI and-   IATA DGR: Guidance documents for shipping dangerous goods by air.

These guidelines define, for example, the maximum permissible quantityof the cargo to be transported, permissible packaging types andmaterials, and safety measures such as securing the load againstshifting and the provision of fire extinguishers.

However, these regulations still do not provide a technically cogent andabove all cohesive description of a mandatory holding apparatus forelectrochemical energy storage apparatuses.

Thus, for example, the requirement for used lithium-ion cells (from ADR)is that they may be transported in “1H2” drums. The description 1H2designates the type of container, the material and the categorization:

1: Type of container (e.g., bags, boxes)

H: Container material (e.g., wood, steel)

2: Categorization (e.g., open or closed)

Since Jan. 1, 2009 a large number of new regulations have beenintroduced regarding the determination of the shipping destination forlithium-ion batteries. Thus, for example, a distinction must be madebetween lithium-ion batteries or cells and lithium-metal batteries orcells. In addition, when shipping or transporting such electrochemicalenergy storage apparatuses, it must be indicated whether they are beingsent with devices or equipment. Moreover, electrochemical energy storageunits, particularly lithium-metal and lithium-ion batteries, mustundergo certain tests before shipping (defined in UN regulations 3090,3091, 3480 and 3481). These tests and criteria are summarised in the UNinspection manual, part III, section 38.3.

Yet despite these strict rules, a spate of accidents has still occurredshortly before the filing date of this application, particularly in theair shipping sector. Consequently, the Federal Aviation Administration(FAA) felt it had no choice but to issue a warning for the transport ofelectrochemical energy storage apparatuses, particularly lithium-ionbatteries, because until that time no suitable, safe packaging fortransportation existed, particularly in the event of a fire. Therequirements for such transport packaging are diverse and may varyaccording to the type of hazardous goods and the possible riskscenarios.

The object on which the invention is based is therefore to provide asafe transportation apparatus, particularly for the transportation andstorage of electrochemical energy storage apparatuses that in particularresponds to complex emergency situations and at the same time is ascompact as possible.

This is achieved according to the invention by the teaching of theindependent claims. Preferred refinements of the invention are thesubject matter of the dependent claims.

As described in greater detail below, in order to solve this problem atransportation apparatus for hazardous material is provided,particularly for at least one electrochemical energy storage apparatus,having at least one holding apparatus for accommodating the hazardousmaterial. The holding apparatus comprises at least one accommodationspace. In addition, the holding apparatus comprises a barrier devicethat preferably shields at least sections of the accommodation space inat least one direction, the barrier device being made of at least afirst and at least a second material.

The advantage of the transportation apparatus of the invention consistsin that the barrier device with the first and second materials forms asecure barrier between the interior of the holding apparatus and theenvironment that is sufficient to withstand complex danger situations.In particular, if the transportation apparatus further comprises anactive safety device, for example an extinguishing device, the level ofsafety is raised further by the barrier device because the hazardsituation can initially be curbed effectively until the action of thesafety device takes effect. For example, explosion, fire or corrosionmay occur in combination in complex hazard situations. In complex hazardsituations multiple hazards must be addressed simultaneously to theextent possible. Thus, in the case of an explosion danger exists notonly in the form of a pressure wave but also in the form of flyingprojectiles. An explosion is often also accompanied by fire. Therefore,in the event of an explosion a package for transportation must be ableto withstand not only the pressure wave, but also items that areprojected against it by the blast, and it must be fireproof. Atransportation apparatus should preferably also be lightweight, to keeptransportation costs to a minimum. All this requires new concepts in thematerial combination of safe transport packaging such as are suggestedas the object of the present invention.

The barrier device preferably shields the accommodation space at leastpartially, or completely, in at least one direction, in multipledirections, particularly in all horizontal and/or all verticaldirections. The shielding refers in particular to a shielding of theaccommodation space from the environment of the transportationapparatus, or from the environment of the holding apparatus, or from theenvironment of the barrier device, or to a shielding or separation of atleast two regions of the accommodation space. The directions arerelative to a transportation apparatus that comprises an underside (or abottom border) which may be arranged in the direction of gravity (thatis to say vertically downward), preferably a base plate, and an upperside (or a top border) opposite the underside.

The barrier device may be combined with other barrier devices as a partof the transportation apparatus or the holding apparatus, or it maysubstantially constitute the transportation apparatus or holdingapparatus. The barrier device may be located inside the holdingapparatus. The barrier device may be located outside and on the side orthe top of the holding apparatus. The barrier device can be locatedbetween a first and at least one second holding apparatus. However, itis also possible that one or more parts of the barrier device may bearranged outside and on the side or the top of the holding apparatus,and/or one or more parts may be arranged inside the holding apparatus.The barrier device may have an operative connection with the holdingapparatus and/or with the environment. However, it is also possible thatthe barrier device has no operative connection with the holdingapparatus, or the environment, or either.

The barrier device preferably forms at least one, exactly one, exactlytwo, exactly three or exactly four wall(s) of the transportationapparatus or holding apparatus, wherein said wall may form or be a sidewall, a bottom wall, a top wall and/or a lid wall. This wall (or walls)may also be arranged inside the accommodation space of the holdingapparatus, where it preferably forms an internal lining, for example alining for the internal wall, the bottom wall, the top wall or the lidwall. One wall is preferably arranged so as to define a plurality ofcompartments of the accommodation space, or for example, to serve as apartition wall. This partition wall may be disposed parallel to a baseplate of the transportation apparatus, perpendicular thereto, and mayfor example form a multichamber system, wherein each chamber may containand/or support for example a hazardous material such as anelectrochemical energy storage cell. The barrier device may be arrangedas an insert element of the accommodation space and may be connected tothe holding apparatus permanently or detachably. This wall maysubstantially constitute the entire wall of a polygonal or other hollowbody, particularly the body of the holding apparatus. The wall may alsoform a wall section of a hollow body, wherein the wall section maydesignate a wall segment or a wall layer (cut out perpendicularly to thewall surface).

The barrier device may also form another part of the transportationapparatus or holding apparatus, such as a frame, stanchions, edgesections. The terms holding apparatus and holding device are preferablyused interchangeably in the description of the present invention.

The barrier device is characterized in that it comprises at least afirst material and at least one second material, which are preferablydifferent from one another. The first material may form one (for examplethe first) layer and/or the second material may form one (for examplethe second) layer. A layer may comprise multiple sublayers. The twolayers may be in direct contact with one another or be directly orindirectly connected or coupled with one another, or they may not be indirect contact or directly or indirectly connected or coupled with oneanother. For example, it is possible and preferred to provide aheat-reflecting first, for example inner, and/or a heat-reflectingsecond, for example external material layer, between which a thirdmaterial layer may be arranged, which may for example be designed towithstand impact and may be positioned at a distance from the innerand/or the outer material layer, for example with a gap between 1 mm and50 mm. The gap between the first and the third and/or the second and thethird material layers may thus serve to prevent a mutual direct thermaldiffusion effect between the layers, so that particularly the thirdlayer may be protected from overheating at least for a short time.

In a preferred embodiment, the barrier device comprises a first layer ofthe first material and a second layer of the second material. With thissequential arrangement of different materials, it is possible for thephysical properties thereof to be used to advantage in a composite layerwith both properties or new properties. In a preferred embodiment, thebarrier device comprises a first layer of the first material and thesecond material and may also comprise a second layer of the first and/orsecond material. This sequential arrangement of different materials alsomakes it possible to use the physical properties thereof to advantage ina composite layer with both properties or new properties.

The first and second materials are preferably each adapted to serve aseffective barriers against a specific hazardous interaction between theaccommodation space of the holding apparatus and the ambient environmentof the corresponding material or the ambient environment of the barrierdevice. The first or second material, or both materials, are eachpreferably fluid-impermeable, particularly liquid-impermeable and/orgas-impermeable, heat-resistant, heat-reflective, heat absorbing, heatinsulating, resistant to pressure (explosion-resistant) impactresistant, puncture resistant and corrosion resistant.

The barrier device preferably comprises a layer system that comprises orconsists of the first and/or second material. In a preferred embodiment,the layer system comprises a first layer that is preferably an outerlayer of the layer system, and is preferably the layer of the layersystem facing toward the accommodation space of the holding apparatus.The layer system preferably comprises a second layer that is preferablyan inner layer of the layer system. This second layer can consist of onelayer or again of multiple layers. The layer system preferably comprisesa third layer which is preferably another outer layer of the layersystem, and is preferably the layer of the layer system facing away fromthe accommodation space of the holding apparatus, that is to say itfaces toward the ambient environment of the transportation apparatus.

In a preferred embodiment of the transportation apparatus, the firstand/or third layer of a layer system of the barrier device comprises ametal or metal alloy, or consists thereof, for example steel orpreferably aluminium, particularly a metal foil. Such a layer mayparticularly serve to reflect heat, and thus to protect the ambientenvironment or the accommodation space or the second layer. In apreferred embodiment, the second layer preferably comprises a compositefibre material. Such a layer system may have a sufficientlyheat-resistant, mechanically stable, impact- and explosion-resistanteffect and may be of particularly lightweight construction so that theresulting transportation apparatus is safe, yet has a relatively low netweight. The second layer preferably comprises a first sublayer of afibre composite material and a second sublayer of a different materialfrom the first sublayer, preferably a metal material, preferably steel(sheet steel for example). The first sublayer and the second sublayerare preferably bonded to one another. The high tensile strength of fibrecomposite materials can lend the second sublayer, for example the steel,increased resistance to explosion for example, so that the two sublayerscomplement and protect one another, thereby producing a synergisticeffect.

It is also possible and preferably provided that the first materialand/or the second material do not form separate layers. The firstmaterial and the second material preferably form a mixture, wherein thefirst material may serve as a matrix material that surrounds or supportsis another material, in particular the second material, and the secondmaterial may be in the form of an additive material, for examplefibrous, which strengthens the first material and the barrier device.The barrier device may comprise a composite material that contains atleast the first material and the second material, or consists thereof.

The barrier device, particularly the first and/or second material,preferably has a density between 1.0 g/cm̂3 and 10.0 g/cm̂3. This densityis preferably between 1.0 g/cm̂3 and 3.0 g/cm̂3 in order to make thebarrier device or the component(s) thereof as lightweight as possible.This is particularly the case with aluminium materials and materialswith composites, fibre-reinforced plastics. In this manner, thetransportation apparatus may be lightweight, thereby reducing transportcosts. In this context it is preferable for the barrier device,particularly the first material or the second material, to consistpartially or completely of sections that have a density between 7.0g/cm̂3 and 9.0 g/cm̂3, which is true for steel, iron or other metals forexample. Such sections often have a high stability, in particular highthermal resistance, a high yield point and/or high dielectric strength.

The barrier device and/or the first material and/or the second materialor the fibre composite material preferably comprises fibre structuralelements, for example glass fibres, carbon fibres or aramid fibres, orconsists of such fibre structural elements. These may advantageouslyserve as reinforcing elements. It is preferably provided that thebarrier device comprises at least one fibre composite material of whichthe matrix material is said first material and the fibre material issaid second material. It is also preferably provided that the fibrecomposite material comprises at least one layer, preferably at least 2,3, 4, 5 or more layers, that comprises/comprise a fibre material. Theselayers of fibre material be in contact with one another in pairs or maybe kept apart from one other in pairs, for example by means of a thirdlayer or a gas-containing layer. The fibrous materials may be of thesame or different construction. Fibre structure elements may be coatedor uncoated. A multilayer arrangement, particularly comprising multiplelayers of fibre material, produces a multi-functional structure, thephysical properties of which vary from layer to layer so that, forexample, an outer layer of the multilayer arrangement may beparticularly heat resistant whereas an inner layer, for example, may beparticularly impact damping.

The fibre structure elements are preferably aligned essentially in onedirection in at least one layer of the barrier device, so that saidlayer has very high tensile and compressive strengths in the givendirection. It is also possible and preferred that the fibre structureelements are aligned essentially multidirectionally as a woven fabric inat least one layer of the barrier device, so that the multidirectionaltensile and compressive strengths of the layer and thus also the impactdamping effect are enhanced.

The fibre structural elements preferably comprise glass fibres orconsist substantially thereof. This increases the tensile andcompressive strength of the layer and the barrier device. The fibrestructure elements preferably contain carbon fibres or consistsubstantially thereof. This also increases the tensile and compressivestrength of the layer and the barrier device. But these fibres arelighter than glass fibres and are highly thermally and electricallyconductive, which can be used to suppress electrostatic charging of thebarrier device. The fibre structural elements preferably comprise aramidfibres (e.g., polyparaphenylene terephthalamide fibres) or consistsubstantially thereof. In this way, the layer or the barrier device isgiven higher tensile and compressive strength, high impact resistance,high fracture strain, good vibration damping properties and resistanceto acids and alkalis. Aramid fibres also have good thermal stability upto 400° C. Aramid fibres are therefore particularly suitable for use asimpact damping and heat resistant layers.

The first material is preferably a plastic, particularly asemi-crystalline or amorphous plastic, for example polyamide,polyphthalamide, polyester, polypropylene, polyurethane, polyolefin,high-density polyethylene, or modifications thereof. The first andsecond materials preferably form a fibre-reinforced plastic. Theproportion of the fibre elements in the fibre-reinforced plastic is,preferably in each case, 25-35, 35-45, 45-55, 55-65, 65-75 percentrelative to the volume or mass of the fibre-reinforced plastic, orcomprises a different percentage thereof. Fibre-reinforced plasticstypically have high specific stiffness and strength. They are thereforeparticularly suitable for the preferred variant of the transportationapparatus as a lightweight construction. The mechanical and thermalproperties of the fibre-reinforced plastic can be influenced by a widevariety of parameters, particularly the fibre volume, the braid angleand the layer sequence, so that the properties of the barrier device andthe transportation apparatus may be specified flexibly according torequirements. The first material is preferably a thermoplastic. In thismanner, the fibre-reinforced plastic is readily mouldable. It is alsopreferred that the first material is a thermosetting plastic. Such afibre-reinforced plastic has high temperature resistance andparticularly high strength. The barrier device may also comprise anelastomer plastic, which may be used in particular to form a shockabsorbing layer or region.

It is preferred that the fibre structural elements comprise continuousfilaments (that is to say a length>=50 mm) or are entirely or partiallyor substantially entirely in the form of continuous filaments. This hasthe effect of further increasing the stability of a fibre-reinforcedplastic. The fibre structural elements preferably comprise smoothfilament yarn, or alternatively rovings, or are partially or essentiallyentirely in the form of a smooth filament yarn, or alternatively theform of rovings. It is further preferred that the fibre structuralelements constitute a semi-finished product, each preferablyindividually or combined: wovens, non-crimp fabrics, multiaxial fabrics,embroidered fabrics, braided fabrics, mats, non-woven fabrics, fine cut,spacer fabrics, particularly by weaving continuous filaments, such asrovings. The fibre structural elements particularly preferably formnon-crimp fabrics, since these have very good mechanical properties. Ina non-crimp fabric the fibres are ideally parallel and stretched.Essentially, continuous fibres are used. Non-crimp fabrics may be heldtogether by a paper or stitch binding. The non-crimp fabric ispreferably a multiaxial non-crimp fabric particularly in the form of alaminate. In this non-crimp fabric the fibres are not orientated only inone plane. Additional fibres are preferably orientated perpendicularlyto the plane of the laminate to improve the delamination and impactbehaviour.

The barrier device, particularly the first and/or second material or thecomposite fibre material, preferably comprises a polyoxazole,particularly poly(p-phenylene-2,6-benzobisoxazole, PBO), a syntheticfibre manufactured by Toyobo, Osaka, Japan and known by the trade nameZylon®. With a melting point of 650° C. Zylon® combines particularlyhigh heat resistance and mechanical strength with low density, so it isparticularly suitable for use in constructing a safe transportationapparatus. A protective layer or material encasement for thepolyoxazole, made for example from plastic such as PE or UHMWPE, or frommetal, is preferably provided to protect it particularly againstcorrosion.

The barrier device, particularly the first and/or second material or thecomposite fibre material preferably comprises ultra high molecularweight polyethylene (UHMWPE), particularly Dyneema, or consists thereof.Dyneema is a high strength polyethylene fibre (PE) with high tensilestrength and is a highly crystalline, highly stretched UHMWPE. It isparticularly suitable for use as a lightweight, anti-abrasive, shock andimpact damping material, which makes it particularly suitable forconstructing a safe transportation apparatus.

The barrier device preferably comprises a penetrating composite, whereinparticularly the first and second materials are components of apenetrating the composite. In such a penetrating composite, theindividual components not only combine with each other, as happens withmost fibre composites for example, but also penetrate each other.

Consequently, it is possible to derive material properties that can beused advantageously for the safe transportation apparatus, for examplewith regard to heat resistance. Silicon carbide (SiC) is such apenetrating composite.

The barrier device, particularly the first and/or second material or thecomposite fibre material preferably comprises ceramic material, forexample a technical ceramic, or consists thereof. The ceramic materialis also preferably a ceramic fibre composite material, that is to say inparticular a matrix of normal ceramic embedded between continuousfilaments that is reinforced by ceramic fibres and is then referred toas fibre-reinforced ceramic, ceramic composite, ceramic fibre or CMC.The matrix and the fibres may consist of known ceramic materials,wherein carbon is also considered to be a ceramic material in thiscontext. Ceramic fibres may comprise or consist of a polycrystalline oramorphous material. Ceramic fibres may consist of: crystalline alumina,mullite, silicon carbide, which may be substantially crystalline,zirconia, carbon fibres with the graphite layers aligned in thedirection of the fibres, and amorphous fibres of silicon carbide; or maycomprise any of said materials. The advantages of ceramic fibrecomposites are similar to those of ceramic, with high resistance to heatand temperature variations but without the relatively low fracturetoughness and relatively high sensitivity to thermal shock. With theseproperties, said materials may advantageously be used to construct asafe transportation apparatus. Fibre-reinforced ceramics that use oxidesare good electrical insulators and due to their porosity have goodthermal insulation effect, even better than that of many oxide ceramics.Ceramic fibre composite material is particularly preferable, at least insections or as a layer of the barrier device, for example since it iseven less susceptible to corrosion and sensitive to heat than manymetallic materials and components. Besides the advantage of weightreduction, the use of ceramic fibre composite material may result in alonger service life of the transportation apparatus. Ceramic fibrecomposite material may also assume load-bearing functions, particularlyin constructing or supporting a frame or cradle of the transportation orholding apparatus, or it may be used for mechanical protection againstabrasion and as a barrier against puncturing and impacts.

The barrier device and/or, the first material and/or the second materialpreferably comprises steel or sheet steel, preferably galvanized in eachcase, preferably as a duplex system as defined in DIN EN ISO 12944-5.These offer high mechanical stability, are particularly resistant toimpacts and projectiles resistant and heat-resistant, which renders themparticularly suitable for use in constructing a safe transportationapparatus. The thickness of the sheet steel may be for example between 1mm and 10 mm, preferably 1.4 mm-2.1 mm. A thickness between 1.0 mm and5.0 mm results in high stability and acceptable total weight of thetransportation apparatus.

The barrier device and/or the first material and/or the second materialpreferably comprises aluminium and/or zinc-copper, zinc, lead orsteel/iron or alloys thereof, and particularly preferably, metal foamsmade therefrom, preferably an aluminium foam with relatively low densityand high stability. It is preferable that components of thetransportation apparatus, preferably each of a plate, a (bottom, side ortop) wall, a frame, a cradle, tubes or support stanchions, are filledwith metal foam. Foam-filled tube profiles and sandwich panels may beused as semi-finished products for constructing the transportationapparatus. Aluminium foam panels consist for example of an aluminiumalloy with for example about 1.5% calcium to which a blowing agent isadded. Said blowing agent, for example titanium hydride (TiH), is addedto the molten aluminium during the melting operation. During the meltingprocess, the hydrogen content in the blowing agent may form bubbles.During the subsequent cooling of the melt the bubbles thus create poresin the aluminium matrix. The density of the aluminium foam produced inthis way (for example 0.2 to 0.25 g/cm³) then is approximately only10-15% of that of solid aluminium (2.7 g/cm³).

It is further preferred that the barrier device and/or the firstmaterial and/or the second material comprise or form a metal coating,wherein said metal coating, being for example a metal such as aluminiumor a metal alloy, may particularly serve to reflect radiated heat, andmay thus serve as a heat shield, which is particularly preferred in thedesign of a safe transportation apparatus.

At least one of the materials preferably has the property of being ableto absorb the action of kinetic energy (for example from penetratingsplinters or projected fragments) and convert it into deformation energyand/or heat energy. Materials having such a property are characterizedfor example by a “yield point”, which may be defined as the shear stressat which a non-reversible deformation of the material occurs. Suchmaterials are often bulletproof or ballistic-resistant materials.Particularly preferred are fibre composite materials. Other materialsmay also be used, however, for example polymer- or metal-basedmaterials, provided such materials are at least partially capable ofabsorbing but not releasing, that is to say causing penetratingfragments or impacting projectiles to bounce off. Typical impenetrablematerials of such kind comprise aramid fibres or polybenzazole fibres.However, other composites known to a person skilled in the art asimpenetrable materials are also conceivable. The barrier device and/orthe first material and/or the second material preferably comprises apolymer blend material. This may comprise or consist of epoxy resin andnatural fibres such as corn and rape fibres for example, may be porousand may thus be better capable of absorbing the energy of an explosionor collision than rigid materials. Destructive pressure peaks can beresisted in this way.

The barrier device may also preferably consist of or comprise anothercombination of various materials. Thus it is conceivable for examplethat sand particles, gels, fabrics, foams, or other materials, arearranged between two sheets made for example from metal. The barrierdevice may be of flexible construction, which may be assured for exampleby the use of fibre composite materials or elastomers, but it may alsobe constructed with relatively little elasticity for example, whichwould be possible through the use of metal plates or ceramic materialsfor example. The barrier device may further comprise both flexiblecomponents and also rigid components. More preferably, materials areused that lose little of their bulletproof properties at temperatures upto 400° C., preferably up to 1,000° C., more preferably up to 1,500° C.,particularly up to 2.000° C. or higher, for example, SiC-containingceramic fibre composite.

At least one holding apparatus or parts of a holding apparatus maypreferably connected in bonded and/or force-locking and/or form-lockingmanner to at least one barrier device, particularly permanently (notnon-destructively detachable) or detachably (that is to say detachablein proper use and non-destructively).

The holding apparatus preferably comprises an underside that mayparticularly be designed for supporting a receptacle on an optional baseplate by constructing said underside for example as or comprisingprojections for engaging in a europallet or unit load devices (ULD) orother underlays, (electro)magnetic retaining members for retaining on ametal base, or plinth elements that may be elastically deformable, forexample, or the like. The underside preferably comprises at least onesubstantially flat section, so that when the transportation apparatus isprepared for its proper use the normal of this plane extendsperpendicularly to the direction of gravity. For the purposes of thedescription of the present invention this corresponds to the negativez-direction, which is also designated “downward” (corresponding to thepositive z-direction, which is designated “upward”). The holdingapparatus has an upper side positioned opposite, that is to say directlyabove the underside.

The holding apparatus preferably comprises or consists of a frame or acradle. In each case, this is preferably constructed in such manner thatit encloses or spans a holding volume. The holding apparatus,particularly the frame or cradle, is preferably constructed so as toguarantee stability and provide protection against mechanical stress onthe holding apparatus. The holding apparatus is preferably constructedto withstand stresses created by positive or negative pressure ±1 bar orhigher, or lower, in the interior of the holding apparatus, wherein saidpressure differences act on a notional or actual enclosure of theholding apparatus that delimits the interior of the holding apparatuswith respect to the exterior thereof. The holding apparatus ispreferably able to withstand external loads of preferably up to 130N/cm² or higher without sustaining any substantial damage. The holdingapparatus is preferably designed such that in the event of an explosion,flash fire, deflagration or detonation no fragments or projectiles areable to penetrate the interior of the holding apparatus or are able toescape from the interior of the holding apparatus. Each holdingapparatus preferably has a ballistic resistance that preferablycorresponds to at least one of the resistance classes FB1, FB2, FB3,FB4, FB5, FB6, FB7 or FSG defined by European Standard EN 1522 or,particularly if the barrier device comprises glass, one of theresistance classes BR1, BR2, BR3, BR4, BR5, BR6, BR7 or SG2 defined byEN 1063.

The frame or cradle may comprise fastening devices such that the holdingapparatus and therewith also the transportation apparatus may besecured, that is to say the displaceability thereof relative to itssurroundings, such as the floor of a transporter may be minimised,preferably prevented entirely. The fastening devices may comprise forcemeans, via which fastening can be achieved by engagement of thetransportation apparatus with mating latching means in the surroundingarea. Mating fastening means such as complementary detent means may alsobe arranged on the holding apparatus or the transportation apparatusitself. In this case, a plurality of transportation apparatuses and/orholding apparatuses can be connected or engaged with each other, forexample to create a group of several transportation apparatuses or toform one transportation apparatus with a plurality of connected holdingapparatuses. By coupling multiple holding apparatus of thetransportation apparatus, the movability thereof is limited, which mayincrease safety during storage or transportation.

The holding apparatus preferably comprises a base plate. The base platemay be formed by a preferably rectangular body that is extremely robust,especially for loads up to 2000 kg or more, for example by at least oneplate conforming to an industry standard, such as a europallet,preferably a europallet according to DIN EN 13698, or another base platethat preferably has a footprint of 0.1 to 2 m², more preferably 0.5 to1.5 m², particularly preferably 0.7 to 1.0 m ², most preferably 0.96 m²,or any other standard plate.

Said base plate may for example be a unit load device (ULD) pallet ormay have the same dimensions as a ULD pallet and may be made of sheetaluminium, may preferably be an LD8 pallet or may have the dimensions ofa ULD pallet, may be an LD11 pallet or an LD7 pallet, or may have therespective dimensions thereof. A ULD pallet or base plate preferably hasa footprint of 1 to 10 m², preferably 3 to 7 m², more preferably up to 5m². The footprint may preferably also be larger or smaller.

The base plate preferably designed as a europallet preferably hasexternal length dimensions of 100 to 2000 mm, more preferably 800 to1500 mm, particularly preferably 1000 to 1300 mm, most preferably 1200mm. The base plate preferably designed as a europallet preferably haswidth dimensions of 50 to 2,000 mm, more preferably 300 to 1500 mm,particularly preferably 700 to 1200 mm, most preferably 800 mm, andexternal height dimensions of 10 to 500 mm, more preferably from 50 to350 mm, particularly preferably from 70 to 200 mm, most preferably 144mm. The length and/or width dimensions and/or height dimensions of thebase plate may preferably also be larger or smaller. But the base platemay preferably also be configured as a ULD pallet, the external lengthdimensions of which are from 500 to 3000 mm, more preferably from 1500to 2500 mm, particularly preferably from 1530 mm or 2240 mm. Thepreferred external width dimensions in this case are between 1500 mm and4000 mm, more preferably 2000 to 3500 mm, particularly preferably 2440mm or 3180 mm. The external length and/or width dimensions maypreferably also be larger or smaller.

The use of a standardized base plate, for example a europallet or ULDpallet, or a base plate that has the dimensions and/or load capacitythereof, has the advantage that it enables the best possible use to bemade of many facilities that are already available in the transportationand warehousing infrastructure, such as the cargo areas of truck, railcars, shipping or aircraft containers, as these are often alreadyoptimally sized for the standard dimensions of said base plates.Furthermore, the base plate may comprise a fastening device for securingthe holding apparatus to the base plate and for securing thetransportation apparatus with respect to its surroundings, therebymaking it possible to secure the item in such manner that displacementof the holding apparatus or transportation apparatus is limited, andpreferably prevented entirely.

The base plate or transportation apparatus is preferably designed insuch manner that it may be transported and/or stacked by means of aforklift truck. For this purpose, the base plate or transportationapparatus preferably comprises at least one recessed region or apertureregion that is designed to accommodate the forks of a forklift truck.The base plate may be designed for example as a standard pallet (forexample with external height and/or width and/or depth dimensions of aeuropallet or ULD pallet, for example), wherein the base plate maycomprise one or more plinth elements and a bearing plate section. Theplinth elements are preferably below the bearing plate section on whichthe holding apparatus may be mounted, and are connected thereto. Asecond bearing plate section may be provided underneath the plinthelements similarly to a standard pallet. In this manner, thetransportation apparatus may be integrated in an existing logisticssystem more easily.

The peripheral dimension of the base plate may preferably be the same asthe peripheral dimension of the optional frame or cradle. However, theperipheral dimension of the base plate may also be larger or smallerthan that of the frame or cradle.

The holding apparatus may comprise a closure device such as a closureplate, which may be in the form of a lid structure. The closure devicemay be a separate component, particularly connectable with the holdingapparatus, or it may be permanently attached to the holding apparatus,that is to say it cannot be detached non-destructively. The holdingapparatus may further comprise a retaining device for retaining theclosure device. The retaining device may comprise a hinge arrangement ortrack arrangement, such that the closure device can be designed as apivoting or sliding closure. The closure plate may comprise a fixingdevice so that it may be fixed to the holding apparatus. The fixingdevice may include for example latching means or magnetic closureelements or ring members.

The peripheral dimension of the closure plate may correspond to theperipheral dimension of the optional frame or the optional cradle.However, the peripheral dimension of the closure plate may also belarger or smaller than the peripheral dimension of the frame or cradle.

The holding apparatus may be designed as an open or closed receptacle ormay comprise such, which may comprise a base plate, frame or cradle andclosure plate for example. The receptacle preferably comprises at leastone side wall which may be in the form of a hollow cylinder for example,or preferably comprises at least four connected side walls that enclosea substantially cuboid volume. The holding apparatus is preferablydesigned as a ULD container, which is constructed such that at least onearea is created by two side walls that are positioned at an angle otherthan with respect to the baseplate or cover plate, such that thereceptacle is approximately U-shaped. Such an air freight container ispreferably constructed as an LD1, LD2, LD3, LD6, LD7, LD8, LD9 or LD11container.

The holding capacity of the receptacle is preferably suitable forholding a liquid volume of preferably 1 to 1000 dm³, 100 to 800 dm³, 200to 700 dm³, 500 to 700 dm³ for example, or more or less, and forpreventing said liquid from leaking at least in the direction of gravityunder the force of gravity.

The components of the transportation apparatus, such as the base plateor the frame or cradle or side walls of the holding apparatus may bemade from any materials that are suitable for accommodating thehazardous material in question, preferably treated, for example coated,or untreated wood, or similarly treated or untreated plastic, metal,steel, aluminium, thin sheet metal, thick plate, fibres, fibrousstructures or felt or composite materials. Preferred materials areparticularly iron-containing alloys, steel, lightweight metals such asaluminium, titanium or magnesium, plastics, in particular polypropylene,polyethylene or polyamide, which in particular are cross-linked and arein particular reinforced with fillers and/or wovens/non-crimped fabrics,in particular with glass fibres and/or carbon fibres and/or aramidfibres and/or polybenzazole fibres or combinations thereof. However, itis also possible to use non-crosslinked plastics, elastomers, gels,particles of glass or sand, textile mats or non-crimped fabrics, foams,particularly of steel, lightweight metals, polymers particularly such aspolyurethane or polystyrene, or combinations thereof. In particular, thematerials also have flame-retardant or flame-resistant properties. Theoperating temperature of the materials used is particularly up to 400°C., preferably up to 1,000° C., more preferably up to 1,500° C., mostpreferably up to 2,000° C. or higher. Particularly suitable andtherefore preferred refractory or flame retardant materials arehigh-temperature resistant polymers such as materials of aramid, epoxyresins polybenazole or other high-temperature resistant polymers,metal-based materials such as alloys or refractory metals or ceramicmaterials, or combinations thereof, such as are known in the art.

The components, such as the base plate, side surfaces, frame or cradleand closure plate may preferably be connected to each other, preferablyin material-locking and/or force-locking and/or form-locking manner, sothat the undesirable escape of a substance from the transportationapparatus into the environment, and conversely penetration of thetransportation apparatus by a material from the surrounding atmospheremay preferably be reduced, or more preferably prevented altogether. Theholding apparatus or the transportation apparatus may be designed as amodule that is connected with other modules in material-locking and/ormore preferably force-locking and/or most preferably form-locking mannerto form a compact group of holding apparatuses within a transportationapparatus or a group of transportation apparatuses.

The holding apparatus(es) may be designed to be flexible, particularlyelastic, that is to way with an E-modulus 0.5 kN/mm² for example (or 0.1or 0.05) which may be achieved by the use of elastomers such as siliconerubber. Alternatively or additionally, the holding apparatus may berigid, in particular essentially designed to be non-elastic, for examplewith an E-modulus>0.5 kN/mm² (or 0.1 or 0.05). In addition, the holdingapparatus may have flexible components in combination with rigidcomponents or without rigid components, which may also be assigned to asafety device, for example. Elastic properties offer the advantage thatmechanical shocks, acting on the outside of the holding apparatus forexample, can be absorbed, which may prevent damage. Rigid propertiesprevent undesirable deformation and provide dimensional stability, whichmay also be preferred in order to provide a stable holding apparatus.

The holding apparatus preferably comprises at least one damping device.This may comprise one or more elastically or non-elastically deformableportions, by means of which kinetic energy can be converted intodeformation energy and heat energy in the event of mechanical shockssuch as impact situations, for example, in order to substantially absorbthe mechanical shock or vibrations. In this way, the cargo may beprotected. Such sections may be components of the respective optionalside walls or closure device, the base plate, the frame or the cradle orcasing of the holding apparatus. The number of sections may be 1, 2 to5, 6 to 10, 11 to 20, 30 to 50 or more. They may be arranged on one ormore sides of the holding apparatus, and particularly spaced uniformly,for example equidistantly. Moreover, these sections may be separatecomponents that are arranged or fixed on the holding apparatus or on oneof the components thereof. For example, said deformable section may alsobe constructed so as to enclose or partially enclose the holdingapparatus, to form an “external buffer zone”.

A holding apparatus may preferably comprise essentially a singlecomponent, and may be formed integrally, for example, as an aluminiumcomposite foil or an aluminium component and/or may comprise multiplecomponents, for example a base plate, a frame or a cradle or a closureplate.

The transportation apparatus may be designed such that a first holdingapparatus completely or at least partially surrounds at least one secondholding apparatus. A first holding apparatus may completely or at leastpartially surround at least one second holding apparatus, so that noeffective relationship exists between the at least one second holdingapparatus and the ambient surroundings of the first holding apparatusand thus of the entire transportation apparatus. A first holdingapparatus may completely or at least partially surround the at least onesecond holding apparatus, so that an effective relationship is possiblebetween the at least one second holding apparatus and the ambientsurroundings. A first holding apparatus may be operatively connected toat least one second holding apparatus. A first holding apparatus mayhave no operative connection with at least one second holding apparatus.A first holding apparatus may have parts in common with at least onesecond holding apparatus. A first holding apparatus may be inmaterial-locking and/or force-locking and/or form-locking contact withat least one second holding apparatus.

These combination possibilities of at least a first and a second holdingapparatus enable the creation of a transportation apparatus withparticular advantages in terms of functionality, flexibility, holdingsafety, content protection and manageability.

A first transportation apparatus may preferably be connected to at leastone second transportation apparatus preferably in material-lockingand/or force-locking and/or form-locking manner by means of a connectingdevice which may be arranged or mounted on a transportation apparatus orwhich may be provided at least partly separately.

In one embodiment, the one or more holding apparatus(es) is/are (an)outer packaging(s), which at least partially delimit(s) thetransportation apparatus from the outside environment, and is/areparticularly recyclable or non-recyclable and accordingly may or may notbe recycled after use.

In one embodiment, the holding apparatus(s) is/are (a) salvagepackaging(s), which can be used repeatedly for packing goods to betransported so that said goods may be salvaged in hazardous situationsfor example (for example in the event of an accident, storage damage,etc.), and which is preferably recyclable and is recycled accordinglyduring use.

The transportation apparatus preferably comprises at least one safetydevice in addition to the barrier device. The safety device may be acomponent of the transportation apparatus alone or in combination withother safety devices. At least one holding apparatus and/or at least onebarrier device or parts of a holding apparatus may preferably beconnected in material-locking and/or force-locking and/or form-lockingmanner to at least one safety device.

The safety device(s) may be located inside the holding apparatus(es)and/or the barrier device. The safety device(s) may be located outsideand on the top or side of the holding apparatus(es) and/or the barrierdevice. The safety device(s) may be located between a first and at leastone second holding apparatus and/or barrier device. One or more parts ofthe safety device(s) may be disposed outside and on the top or side ofthe holding apparatus and/or the barrier device while other parts arearranged inside the holding apparatus(es) and/or the barrier device.

The safety device(s) may be operatively connected to the holdingapparatus(es) and/or the environment and/or the barrier device. Thesafety device(s) may not be operatively connected to the holdingapparatus(es) and the environment and/or the barrier device.

In one embodiment, at least two safety devices may be provided. The atleast two safety devices may be located inside the holdingapparatus(es). The at least two safety devices may be located outsideand on the side or on top of the holding apparatus(es). The at least twosafety devices may be located between holding apparatuses and/or thebarrier device. The at least two safety devices may comprise partsoutside and on the side or on top of the holding apparatus(es) and/orthe barrier device and/or parts inside the holding apparatus(es) and/orthe barrier device.

The at least two safety devices may be operatively connected to theholding apparatus(es) and/or the barrier device. The at least two safetydevices may not be operatively connected to the holding apparatus(es)and/or the barrier device. The at least two safety devices may not beoperatively connected to the ambient surroundings. The at least twosafety devices may be operatively connected to the ambient environment.

The at least two safety devices may be operatively connected to eachother. The at least two safety devices may not be operatively connectedto each other. The at least two safety devices may be operativelyconnected to each other and/or the holding apparatus(es) and/or thebarrier device and/or the ambient environment. The at least two safetydevices may not be operatively connected to each other and/or theholding apparatus(es) and/or the barrier device and/or the ambientenvironment. The at least two safety devices may be operativelyconnected to at least one holding apparatus and/or the barrier deviceand the ambient environment. The at least two safety devices may not beoperatively connected to at least one holding apparatus and/or barrierdevice and the ambient environment.

The safety devices may be used for the same purpose, for example, forfire prevention. The safety devices may be used for different purposes,for example a first safety device may be used for fire prevention whilethe second safety device is used to collect leaking liquids.

Advantageously, at least one safety device is part of the transportationapparatus for fire prevention and/or fire fighting. Advantageously, atleast one safety device is part of the transportation apparatus toprevent hazardous material from leaking from the transportationapparatus into the ambient environment.

Advantageously, at least two safety devices and at least one barrierdevice are provided, wherein at least one first safety device serves forfire prevention and/or fire-fighting, at least one second safety deviceserves for collecting and/or disposing of solid, liquid or gaseous(chemical) substances from the interior of a holding apparatus, and atleast one barrier device is capable of absorbing and/or slowing, but notreleasing (due to penetration by splinters or projectiles for example)flying splinters or projectiles that may have resulted from anexplosion, for example. It is unimportant whether the projectiles orsplinters are flying from the surrounding atmosphere towards the insideof the transportation apparatus or in the opposite direction.

The safety device(s) may preferably in each instance be introducedbefore, during and after assembly of the transportation apparatus.

A safety device, particularly a receptacle with extinguishing agent, isadvantageously placed on a first holding apparatus, wherein the safetydevice particularly releases the extinguishing agent at a minimumtemperature and/or minimum pressure. Preferably, a rapidlydisintegrating capsule causes the release of the extinguishing agent ata minimum temperature and/or a minimum pressure. The extinguishing agentis preferably released by spraying.

The safety device is preferably constructed as a receptacle, preferablyas a pad. The term pad is used to refer to a receptacle that contains afiller material. A pad preferably has an interior space for containingsubstances, for example extinguishing agents, which are preferably dry,in gel or fluid form, or preferably contain aerosol extinguishingagents. The space for holding said substances is preferably defined byan enclosure of the pad, which is preferably flexible. The enclosurepreferably has the form of a foil. The enclosure may be constructed as asingle part or in multiple sections. A defined rupture point ispreferably defined at one or more specified positions, and said rupturepoint opens, releasing its contents into the environment when the valuesof certain parameters exceed or fall below certain setpoint values, inthe case of increased pressure or elevated temperature, for example.Such a defined rupture point may have the form of a seam, particularly aweld seam, for example.

A rapidly disintegrating capsule is preferably located inside or withinthe enclosure and, when values for certain parameters exceed or fallbelow certain setpoint values for the parameters, in the case ofincreased pressure or elevated temperature, said capsule triggers anincrease in pressure inside the enclosure, for example by releasinggases, thereby causing the extinguishing agent to be released,preferably sprayed, by the opening of one or more predetermined rupturepoints. However, it is also conceivable for an extinguishing agent to belocated inside the enclosure which, after activation, for example, dueto a temperature rise above a defined value, is activated and isconverted into a rapidly expanding extinguishing agent, an aerosol forexample.

In one embodiment, at least one safety device is advantageously designedas a fire extinguishing device, preferably as a fire extinguishingsystem that complies with the German industrial standard DIN 14497. Thefire extinguishing device preferably contains at least one extinguishingagent or mixtures of extinguishing agents. The extinguishing agent mayconsist of or comprise inert gas, particularly of CO₂, Ar or N₂ ormixtures of gases. The extinguishing agent may consist of or comprise areaction retarding agent and/or installation foam. The extinguishingagent may consist of or comprise coolant water, which may contain atleast one extinguishing agent additive. The extinguishing agent may alsoconsist of or comprise an aerosol. This aerosol may be a dry aerosol.The extinguishing agent may be an extinguishing powder, particularly anABC, BC, or D powder.

Preferably, at least one extinguishing agent additive consisting of apolymer composition that absorbs a multiple of its weight in water, andan adhesive and heat-shielding gel without air inclusions, consisting ofuniformly thickened water is used.

Preferably at least one extinguishing agent additive has good adhesioneven on smooth, vertical surfaces. Preferably, foil thicknesses up to 10mm are formed. The foil thickness may also be larger or smaller. Thephysicochemical properties of the at least one extinguishing agentadditive preferably have the effect of slowing the evaporation rate ofwater at high temperatures. This also leads in preferred manner toreduced consumption of extinguishing water. The at least oneextinguishing agent additive is preferably at least partiallybiodegradable. Particularly preferred extinguishing agents have aproduct viscosity of 200 to 500 mPas at 20° C. However, the productviscosity may also be higher or lower. Further particularly preferredextinguishing agent additives have densities of 1.05 g/cm³. The densitymay also be higher or lower.

Particularly preferred extinguishing agents (additives) have a pH valuebetween 6.9 and 7.1 at 20° C. The pH value may also be higher or lower.The preferred dosage rate of the extinguishing agents (additives) is1.0% to 1.5% for firefighting, 2.0% to 3.0% for shielding, and 1.0% to2.0% for extinguishing systems. The dosage can also be larger orsmaller. Such an extinguishing agent additive is marketed for exampleunder the trade name “Firesorb” by Evonik, Germany (2010; registrationnumber PL 1-98).

At least one safety device preferably comprises a pressure relief devicethat is preferably reclosable, and which may particularly comprise avalve, for example a Horbiger valve and/or flap, for example amulti-flap, which may comprise a plurality of vanes for example, whereinadjacent vanes may touch each other in the closed state. The flap mayparticularly be a spring-loaded flap. The safety device may furthercomprise a setpoint breaking point, particularly in a part of theholding apparatus, for example in the closure device.

At least one barrier device is preferably designed as an explosionprotection device. The term explosion protection is also used to referto detonation protection, flash fire protection or deflagrationprotection. The explosion protection device is preferably capable ofreducing, preferably minimising, more preferably preventing the entry ofsplinters/projectiles into the interior of the holding apparatus and/orthe exit of splinters/projectiles from inside the holding apparatus. Thebarrier device preferably has a bulletproof rating correspondingpreferably in each case to at least one of the resistance classes FB1,FB2, FB3, FB4, FB5, FB6, FB7 or FSG defined in European standard EN 1522or, particularly if the barrier device comprises glass, one of thespecific resistance classes BR1, BR2, BR3, BR4, BR5, BR6, BR7 or SG2defined in EN 1063.

The explosion protection device is preferably capable of at leastpartially, preferably completely absorbing the kinetic energy of theprojectiles/splinters that strike the explosion protection device andconverting it into thermal energy and/or deformation energy, so that theimpacting splinters/projectiles are at least decelerated and preferablystopped (E_(kin)=0 m/s). In this process, the explosion protectiondevice and/or the impacting splinters/projectiles may be deformed by theeffect of the deformation energy and/or heated by the effect of thethermal energy generated.

An explosion protection device or the barrier device preferablycomprises a gas-impermeable and/or fibre-reinforced foil that expands,preferably in a defined or undefined direction, more preferably in up totwo defined or undefined directions, particularly preferably in up tofour defined or undefined directions, most preferably in all directions,under conditions of elevated pressure (that is to say a pressure valuethat differs from atmospheric pressure, 1.028 bar) inside the spacedefined by the foil. Said foil may comprise at least some carbon fibresor aramid fibres or glass fibres. Fibres are understood also to comprisewovens, non-crimped fabrics or non-woven fabrics. The foil may alsopreferably be in the form of a fibre-reinforced composite material. Theexplosion protection device preferably comprises a free-flowingmaterial, for example sand, and/or a fluid. The fluid is preferablyviscous. The fluid is preferably compressible. The explosion protectionmeans is preferably designed as a pressure distribution layer,preferably comprising a honeycomb and/or ridge and/or ribbed and/orcorrugated profile and/or beads, the longitudinal axes of which arearranged in the holding apparatus transversely, preferablyperpendicularly, to the vector of the kinematic moment of the incidentsplinter/projectile. Preferably at least two, more preferably at leastfour, particularly preferably at least six or more pressure distributionlayers are arranged successively. In this context, “successively” isunderstood to mean that the sequence of pressure distribution layerstakes place either horizontally or vertically, or it takes placehorizontally and vertically. The alignments of the longitudinal axes ofthe successive pressure distribution layers are different, morepreferably they are identical. A pressure distribution layer preferablycomprises a material selected from a ferrous alloy, steel, a lightweightmetal such as aluminium, titanium or magnesium, crosslinked plastics,plastics with fillers and/or fabrics and/or nonwovens, preferably withcarbon fibres, glass fibres and/or aramid fibres or combinationsthereof. Preferably, at least two or more explosion protection devicesare contained in the holding apparatus.

The transportation apparatus preferably comprises at least one troughelement. A trough element may be a component in the form of a tub,particularly a catch basin. Preferably, at least one safety device isconfigured as a catch basin for liquids that leak from the holdingapparatus, and is preferably made from a suitable material orcombinations of suitable materials, particularly steel or sheet steel(preferably galvanised), sheet metal, aluminium, copper, metal, plastic,for example PVC or PE, or also from one or more sheets of one or more ofsaid materials, and may comprise one or more coatings of such and othermaterials. The holding apparatus is preferably arranged inside and/orabove the catch basin and preferably inside the catch basin. The lateraldimensions of the catch basin are such that the lateral dimensions of astandard europallet or ULD pallet or ULD container are not exceeded orthat the lateral dimensions of the catch basin are substantially thesame as the lateral dimensions of a standard europallet or a ULD palletor a ULD container. The catch basin may be connected permanently, thatis to say not it cannot be detached non-destructively, to at least oneholding apparatus in bonded and/or force-locking and/or form-lockingmanner. However, it is possible for the catch basin not to be connectedto the at least one holding apparatus.

The bottom or sides of a trough element preferably comprise at least onespacing device, for example one or more plinths or ribs to maintain adistance between the bottom of the tank and the underside of the bottomof the holding apparatus arranged above it. However, it may also be theunderside of the bottom of said holding apparatus that comprises thespacing device. Said spacing device preferably comprises or consists ofmaterials suitable for this purpose, such as plastic or metal. Thetransportation apparatus may comprise one or more grating element(s)which may serve as floor elements or the bearing surface, and which mayparticularly comprise or be a part of said spacing means. A grid elementmay comprise or be a steel grating, which in particular may begalvanised. It may be connected, particularly permanently (that is tosay it cannot be detached non-destructively) or detachably, that is tosay it may be removable, to the transportation apparatus, particularlyto the spacing device, in bonded, force-locking and/or form-lockingmanner.

Preferably, at least one safety device is capable of chemical and/orphysical adsorption and/or chemical and/or physical absorption of solidand/or liquid and/or gaseous (chemical) substances.

The cargo is preferably enclosed by at least one safety device that iscapable of chemical and/or physical adsorption and/or chemical and/orphysical absorption of solid and/or liquid and/or gaseous chemicalsubstances.

In one embodiment, a safety device is a fast-curing foam. This foam maybe, for example, fire-retarding and/or have moisture-absorbing and/orshock-absorbing properties and/or may be connected to the bottom of thecatch basin and the underside of the bottom of the holding apparatus inforce-fitting manner. A spacing device may have latching means withwhich the transportation apparatus is able to be fastened tocomplementary latching means on the tub.

At least one safety device, particularly for fire prevention, preferablyhas the form of a flame resistant and/or gas- and/or liquid-impermeableenclosure of the transported goods, preferably consisting of compositefoil and/or ceramic spray material (for example such as is manufacturedby Evonik Industries AG and known by the trade name Separion) and/orheat-shielding, adhesive gel and/or expanding foam with ignitionprotection and/or Phase Change Material (PCM), and is preferably sprayedonto the cargo from cans.

The flame-resistant and/or gas- and/or liquid-impermeable enclosure ofthe transported goods may preferably consist of a polymer formulationthat absorbs many times its weight in water and an adhesive andheat-shielding gel without air inclusions consisting of uniformlythickened water. The flame resistant and/or gas- and/orliquid-impermeable enclosure of the transported goods preferably hasgood adhesion even on smooth, vertical surfaces. Foil thicknesses up to10 mm are preferred. However, the layer thickness may also be greater orsmaller. The flame-resistant and/or gas- and/or liquid-impermeableenclosure of the transported goods preferably reduces the evaporationrate of water at high temperatures due to its physicochemicalproperties. Also advantageously, this results in lower consumption offire extinguishing water. The flame-resistant and/or gas-impermeableand/or liquid-impermeable enclosure of the transported goods ispreferably at least partially biodegradable. Particularly preferredflame-resistant and/or gas-impermeable and/or liquid-impermeableenclosures of transported goods have a viscosity from 200 to 500 mPas at20° C. Product viscosity may also be higher or lower. Particularlypreferred flame-resistant and/or gas-impermeable and/orliquid-impermeable enclosures of transported goods further havedensities of 1.05 g/cm³. The density may also be higher or lower.

Particularly preferred flame-resistant and/or gas-impermeable and/orliquid-impermeable enclosures of transported goods have a pH valuebetween 6.9 and 7.1 at 20° C. The pH may also be higher or lower.

The preferred dosage rate of the flame-resistant and/or gas-impermeableand/or liquid-impermeable enclosures of transported goods is 2.0% to3.0% for shielding. The dosage rate can be higher or lower. Suchflame-resistant and/or gas-impermeable and/or liquid-impermeableenclosures of transported goods is marketed for example under the tradename “Firesorb” by Evonik (2010; registration number PL 1-98).

Particularly preferably, at least one safety device is in the form of aflame-resistant and/or gas-impermeable and/or liquid-impermeableenclosure of transported goods with heat shielding capabilities. Theenclosure is preferably designed such that a temperature of 100° C.,150° C., 200° C. respectively is not exceeded in the interior of aholding apparatus on the transportation apparatus.

The at least one safety device preferably comprises a gas extractionapparatus, which may comprise a fan, for example. The gas extractionapparatus preferably comprises a filter device such as an activatedcharcoal filtering system that is able to extract a gas (mixture)forming in the interior of the holding apparatus in order to reduce,modify or prevent the gas escaping into the surrounding environment ofthe holding apparatus. The filter system may be a catalytic and/ormechanically acting filter system.

The safety device may further comprise a filtering means independent ofthe gas extraction apparatus. The gas extraction apparatus may also beconfigured such that a gas (mixture) is extracted and enclosed in acontainer and/or liquefied. The container may be located inside oroutside the holding apparatus.

At least one safety device preferably comprises a sensor system that inparticular measures atmospheric pressure, and/or mechanical pressure,and/or temperature, and/or moisture, and/or air composition insideand/or outside the transportation apparatus and/or inside and/or outsidethe holding apparatus(es), and/or inside and/or outside the transportedgoods. The sensor system may comprise at least one temperature probe.The safety device, particularly the sensor system may comprise a controldevice that in particular may comprise a computing device, for exampleintegrated circuits or a microcontroller.

The sensor system may preferably be operatively connected to the vehicleand/or the transported goods, in contact with the battery managementsystem (BMS) of an electrochemical energy storage unit for example, andmay preferably trigger another safety device, a fire extinguishingsystem for example, if captured values exceed or fall below definedparameter values.

In one embodiment, the sensor system may be operatively connected to atleast one safety device that is designed for example for fire preventionor fire fighting.

In this context, the phrase “operatively connected to” is alsounderstood to mean that the sensor system measures specific parameterssuch as temperature or the charge level of batteries, and triggers therelease of extinguishing agent from a safety device for fire fighting ifcaptured values exceed or fall below certain previously definedparameter values. However, the sensor system may also cause the vehicledriver to be alerted, via a warning light located in the cab or via anacoustic signal for example, to the fact that captured values haveexceeded or fallen below certain parameter values, so that the vehicledriver can take appropriate measures such as activating a fireextinguishing system designed as a safety device.

The sensors are advantageously in contact with a control element that ispart of the sensor system and which compares the parameter valuesmeasured by the sensor system, for pressure or temperature for example,with predefined parameter values, and triggers safety devices such as afire extinguishing system if the measured data exceeds or falls belowthe previously defined parameter values. The values for parameters suchas pressure or temperature measured by the sensor system are reported tothe vehicle driver, so that he can activate safety devices if themeasured data exceeds or fall below pre-defined values.

The transportation apparatus preferably comprises a control device. Thismay comprise electrical circuits, a microcontroller, data and voltagesupply elements. It may also be connected to sensors that are optionalcomponents of the transportation apparatus, particularly of the holdingapparatus or the safety device. This enables active control andmonitoring of the transportation apparatus.

The transportation apparatus preferably comprises a display device thatis visible from outside. The display device is preferably designed suchthat changes of state in the hazardous goods, particularly dangersituations, are made visible to the outside world without having to openthe transportation apparatus. The transportation apparatus preferablyhas a viewing window. This may be integrated in a side wall or a topwall or in a lid wall of the holding apparatus, for example, or one ofsaid walls may consist substantially of said window. The display device,particularly said window, is preferably designed such that the contrastor colour thereof is changed partially or completely, particularly thata visible area is filled with a signal colour, in the event of a changeof state (increased temperature or pressure, fire, gas formation, etc.).The viewing window is preferably part of the barrier device and ispreferably bullet-proof according to one of the resistance classes BR1,BR2, BR3, BR4, BR5, BR6, BR7 or SG2 defined in EN 1063.

The display device may also comprise other signalling elements, such asdisplays, lamps, LEDs, or non-electrical signal elements. The displaydevice is preferably designed as a display unit that renders visible atleast one parameter, such as pressure, temperature or atmospherecomposition that is detected in the accommodation space (by a sensordevice for example).

The display device is preferably connected to a safety device whichpreferably comprises a sensor that causes a display to appear on thedisplay device when captured values exceed or fall below thepredetermined values for at least one parameter such as temperature orpressure, or as a consequence of other parameters such as vibration. Anacoustic alert signal is preferably emitted in addition to the visualdisplay.

The transportation apparatus preferably comprises a cooling and/ortemperature control device, which may particularly be monitored by saidcontrol device. In this way it is possible to take corrective steps if acritical temperature is reached in the interior of the transportationapparatus or the holding apparatus.

The transportation apparatus preferably comprises means for monitoringthe state of charge of electrochemical energy storage elements such ascells, batteries, secondary batteries. These means are designed inparticular to enable the state of charge and/or discharge of said energystorage apparatuses to be monitored. This makes it possible to monitorthe state of energy storage apparatuses located in the transportationapparatus during transport or storage for example, particularly anycharging or discharging that takes place during transportation orstorage thereof.

The transportation apparatus or holding apparatus preferably compriseselectrical connections for connecting electrochemical energy storageapparatuses.

In this way, a transportation apparatus is created which is particularlysafe and compact, particularly for transporting cargo such aselectrochemical energy storage apparatuses.

For the purposes of the description of the invention, the followingterms are defined in particular:

“Transport” means the movement of goods of any kind by water, land, orair. For the purposes of the present invention, the term “transport”comprises in particular the transportation, storage, recovery, packing,shipping, etc., of cargo.

“Chemical substances” comprise compounds, substances, solutions,batches, mixtures and/or preparations, in solid, liquid or gaseousstate.

The “outer packaging” is the outer covering of a combination packagingor a mixed packaging system, including any devices that are necessaryand/or useful for surrounding and protecting inner receptacles or innerpackaging.

A first part is “operatively connected” to a second part when a changein state of the first part portion also causes a change in stage of thesecond part and/or vice versa. For example, if a sensor measures a risein temperature and consequently triggers the extinguishing system, thesensor and the extinguishing system are operatively connected to oneanother. On the other hand, for example, if a sensor measures atemperature increase but merely signals the temperature rise to thedriver, for example, and it is the driver who activates theextinguishing system, the extinguishing system and the sensor are notoperatively connected.

An “electrochemical energy storage apparatus” preferably comprises atleast one galvanic cell. It may also comprise other devices that serveto operate the at least one galvanic cell. In this context, the at leastone galvanic cell and the supplementary devices may be arranged in acommon housing. Moreover, above a certain number of galvanic cells theelectrochemical energy storage apparatus may consist of multiple units.The term galvanic cell comprises electrical energy storage apparatusesof any kind, in particular electrochemical energy storage apparatuses,that is to say particularly primary cells and secondary cells, but alsoother electrical energy storage apparatuses such as capacitors.

A “plate” is a body whose primary extension in the preferably verticaldirection (height) is smaller in each case than the two-dimensionalpreferably horizontal extension (length and/or width) thereof. Forexample, the europallet or ULD pallet is called a plate.

The “periphery” of an area is the encompassing line extending around theouter border of an area, or the outline of the area. The “periphery” ofa three-dimensional body, which this extends above a purelytwo-dimensional area, is the encompassing area that spans the body, orit represents the outer surface of the body.

“Adsorption” describes a process in which substances are enriched at thephase boundary between two phases (for example a surface).

“Absorption” describes a process in which substances are assimilatedinto the absorbing phase.

In one embodiment, a pallet, preferably a europallet advantageouslyforms part of the transportation apparatus as the base plate. In oneembodiment, a pallet collar made of wood, metal, steel, or plastic forexample is incorporated in the transportation apparatus for the purposeof confining and enclosing it. In one embodiment, a holding apparatusconsisting of aluminium composite foil and PU foam padding isadvantageously used to enclose the hazardous material. In oneembodiment, a safety device, particularly a container with extinguishingagent is advantageously placed on a first transportation apparatus,wherein the safety device releases the extinguishing agent at a minimumtemperature and/or minimum pressure and a rapidly disintegrating capsulepreferably causes the release of the extinguishing agent at minimumtemperature and/or minimum pressure.

The process according to the invention for producing the holdingapparatus according to the invention comprises the following steps, eachbeing individually optional:

In a first step, all components of a holding apparatus are provided, inparticular the barrier device. In a further step, the providedcomponents of the holding apparatus are assembled. In a further step,all components of a safety device are provided. In a further step, allcomponents of the safety device are assembled. Alternatively,pre-assembled safety devices (such as fire extinguishers) or holdingapparatuses (such as boxes) may be used. In a further step, the safetydevice may be arranged on or in the holding apparatus, or vice versa,thereby providing a transportation apparatus of the invention.Alternatively, multiple holding apparatuses may also be arranged with atleast one safety device to produce a transportation apparatus accordingto the invention. It is preferably provided that after anelectrochemical energy storage apparatus, particularly a lithium-ioncell, has been manufactured, that is to say in factory-new condition, itis arranged in the transportation apparatus according to the inventionby laminating, gluing, stitching clamping, bracing or otherwiseconnecting it with (or to) the transportation apparatus, the holdingapparatus or the barrier device in bonded and/or force-locking and/orform-locking manner, each such means being preferred.

The transportation apparatus according to the invention may preferablybe used particularly for the transport of new, innovative, newlydeveloped or ready-to-sell shipments of hazardous or dangerous goods,more particularly for the transport of new, innovative, newly developedor ready-to-sell electrochemical energy storage apparatuses.

The transportation apparatus according to the invention may preferablybe used particularly for transporting damaged, defective or leakingshipments of hazardous or dangerous goods, more particularly for thetransport of damaged, faulty or leaking electrochemical energy storageapparatuses. The transportation apparatus according to the invention maybe preferably used for transporting, recovering, storing and holdingelectrochemical energy storage apparatuses, particularly lithium-ioncells or lithium-ion batteries that are fresh from the factory, used,defective or partially or completely charged or partially or completelydischarged, or may be of unknown status. Transport may be by air(aeroplane, helicopter, etc.), by land (e.g., road, rail, etc.) or bywater (e.g., by ship). The transportation apparatus is preferablyconfigured to satisfy the conditions for transport according to at leastone of the pertinent official rules and regulations such as ADR, RID,IMDG, RID, ICAO TI, IATA DGR, FAA.

The transportation apparatus according to the invention may comprise one(or more, particularly a plurality>=10) electrochemical energy storageapparatus(es), in particular lithium-ion cell(s), arranged in theaccommodation space. The transportation apparatus then forms anenclosing device that comprises the transfer device or consistsessentially thereof. Such an enclosing device according to the inventionprovides a high level of safety. The electrochemical energy storageapparatus, particularly a lithium-ion cell is, preferably in each case,connected with (or to) the transportation apparatus, the holdingapparatus or the barrier device particularly in force-locking and/orform-locking manner and/or bonded manner particularly, and preferably ineach case, by laminating, gluing, welding, stitching clamping, bracingor hooking.

Features of the inventive method and apparatus may be combined toproduce a variant of the respective object of the invention.

Further advantages, features and application possibilities of thepresent invention will become apparent from the following description ofexemplary embodiments in conjunction with the drawing. In the drawing:

FIG. 1 is a diagrammatic representation of a first embodiment of atransportation apparatus according to the invention, assembled accordingto the invention with a fire extinguishing device and ready for use;

FIG. 2 is a diagrammatic representation of the construction of anotherembodiment of transportation apparatus, and embodiment of the methodaccording to the invention for assembly thereof;

FIG. 3 shows the cross-section of an embodiment of a transportationapparatus according to the invention with a catch basin and gasextraction apparatus; and

FIG. 4 shows the cross-section of another embodiment according to theinvention of a transportation apparatus according to the invention withfour smaller holding apparatuses and built-in sensor system.

FIG. 5 shows the cross-section of another embodiment according to theinvention of a transportation apparatus according to the invention.

FIGS. 6 a, 6 b, 6 c, 6 d show the cross-sections through each of thebarrier devices forming walls that may be used in transportationapparatuses according to the invention, particularly according to FIG. 1to FIG. 5.

FIG. 1 shows a transportation apparatus 100 according to the invention,comprising a holding apparatus that comprises a base plate 110, a frame120 and a lid 130. The frame comprises a barrier device, particularly inaccordance with FIGS. 6 a to 6 d, which provides the transportationapparatus with protection from mechanical and thermal effects. Lid 130contains a barrier device, particularly according to FIG. 6, and asafety device, preferably in the form of a pad, which comprises anextinguishing agent 132 and predetermined rupture points (not shown),and a further safety device 134, for example a decomposable capsule,which causes extinguishing agent 132 to be released into the interior oftransportation apparatus 100 in response to an increase in temperatureor pressure, for example. This may be caused for example by an increasein pressure inside the pad, causing for example one or morepredetermined rupture points to open and extinguishing agent 132 to bereleased into the interior of transportation apparatus 100, preferablyby spraying.

Frame 120, lid 130 and base plate 110 of the holding apparatus areconnected to each other, preferably in such manner that no gas or liquidcan escape from transportation apparatus 100 into the surroundingenvironment or vice versa.

FIG. 2 shows a process for assembling a transportation apparatusaccording to the invention that may also be applied to transportationapparatus 100, for example.

A first step comprises providing the holding apparatus comprising aframe 120, a lid 130 and the base or bottom plate 110, which is formedby a europallet. In a second step, frame 120 is placed on bottom plate110 and connected to the bottom plate.

A third, separate step comprises introducing the hazardous material 150into a receptacle 140, which may comprise casing 144, which containsfiller material 142 that may also be in the form of a safety device thatsurrounds hazardous material 150. Casing 144 may be made for examplefrom aluminium composite foil, preferably such that neither gases norliquids can escape into the environment through casing 144 or viceversa. Filler material 142 may be made from fast curing foam, PU foamfor example.

Hazardous material 150 may be inserted before container 140 is filledwith filler material 142 or also afterwards. Hazardous material 150 ispreferably placed in container 140 in such manner that filler material142 surrounds the hazardous material 150 evenly in all directions.

In a fourth step, receptacle 140 comprising hazardous material 150,casing 144 and filler material 142 is inserted into the holdingapparatus that consists of base plate 110 and frame 120.

The volume of receptacle 140 is preferably selected such that itcorresponds to the interior volume of the holding apparatus consistingof frame 120 and base plate 110. The upper limit is equal to the heightof frame 120. The lateral dimensions of receptacle 140 are selected suchthat the lateral dimensions of europallet 110 are not exceeded. Any gapsbetween frame 120, base plate 110 and receptacle 140 may be filled withfiller material, for example polyurethane foam, polystyrene, or paper,such that movement of receptacle 140 inside holding apparatus 110, 120is limited, preferably prevented entirely.

In a fifth step, a closure device, specifically a lid 130, is placed onthe holding apparatus filled with receptacle 140, and is attached firmlyto the holding apparatus, more precisely to frame 120, preferably insuch manner that no liquid and gas can be exchanged between thesurrounding environment and completed transportation apparatus 100. Lidcover 130 preferably lies flush with receptacle 140. Any gaps betweenlid 130 and receptacle 140 may be filled with filler material, forexample PU foam, polystyrene, or paper to ensure that a perfectly tightfit can be made between lid 130 and receptacle 140.

Lid 130 comprises a safety device with extinguishing agent 132, and afurther safety device 134, such as a decomposable capsule which triggersthe release of extinguishing agent 132 into the interior oftransportation apparatus 100, preferably by spraying, in the event of arise in temperature or pressure.

Lid 130 is assembled in a separate step. For example, a lid 130furnished with a cavity may be provided. A pressurised container, forexample, filled with extinguishing agent 132 and which may be equippedwith a setpoint rupture point is introduced into said cavity. Theactivation device 134, such as a decomposable capsule that causes thesetpoint rupture point to rupture in the event of a rise in temperatureor pressure for example, may be located at the setpoint rupture point ofthe container filled with extinguishing agent 132. For example, ifcontainer filled with extinguishing agent 132 is under pressure, theextinguishing agent may be released by spraying, which is preferableaccording to the invention.

The result is a safe, simple and compact transportation apparatus 100for transporting and storing of hazardous materials 150.

FIG. 3 shows the cross section of an inventive transportation apparatus102 including a catch basin 170 for collecting liquid that leaks fromreceptacle 140. Catch basin 170 is disposed on a base plate 160. Thelengthwise and lateral dimensions of catch basin 170 are greater than(or also preferably not greater than) the lengthwise and lateraldimensions of base plate 160. Spacing devices 172 separate the bottom ofcatch basin 170 from the underside of the bottom of receptacle 140 thatserves as the holding apparatus for hazardous materials 150.

Receptacle 140 is preferably made from a sturdy casing 144. Casing 144encloses a volume. The casing comprises a barrier device, particularlyas shown in FIGS. 6 a to 6 d, which lends protection for thetransportation apparatus against mechanical and thermal effects.Hazardous material 150 may be introduced into this volume. The volume ofhazardous material 150 and the volume defined by the inner wall ofcasing 144 are preferably selected such that an unfilled space remainswhen hazardous material 150 is introduced into casing 144, which freespace may be filled with filler 142. Filler material 142 preferablyencloses hazardous material 150 in such manner that movement of thehazardous material 150 inside receptacle 140 is limited, preferablyprevented entirely. Hazardous material 150 is preferably introduced intocasing 144 in such manner that filler material 142 surrounds hazardousmaterial 150 evenly in all directions.

Gases given off by hazardous material 150 may be evacuated via anexhaust gas extraction apparatus 180, preferably equipped with activatedcharcoal filter system and/or preferably rendered harmless.

FIG. 4 shows the cross section of a transportation apparatus 104including an outer casing 190, one or more receptacles 140 serving asholding apparatus for hazardous material 150, an extinguishing agent132, a control device 138 for activating and/or triggering extinguishingagent 132, and a plurality of sensors 135, 136 that are in contact withcontrol device 138.

Receptacles 140 each comprise a casing 144, which preferably allowsstacking of multiple receptacles 140. The casing comprises a barrierdevice, particularly as shown in FIGS. 6 a to 6 d, which lendsprotection for the transportation apparatus against mechanical andthermal effects. Each casing 144 encloses a volume into which hazardousmaterial 150 and filling material 142 may be introduced. Fillingmaterial 142 preferably surrounds hazardous material 150 in such mannerthat movement of the hazardous material 150 inside receptacle 140 islimited, preferably prevented entirely. Hazardous material 150 ispreferably introduced into casing 144 in such manner that fillermaterial 142 surrounds hazardous material 150 substantially evenly inall directions.

A sensor 135 is attached to the hazardous material 150 in eachreceptacle 140. Said sensor 135 may also extend into hazardous material.If hazardous material 150 is an electrochemical energy storage apparatusfor example, sensor 135 may be connected to the Battery ManagementSystem (BMS) of the electrochemical energy storage apparatus 150.

Sensor 135 may measure parameters such as pressure, temperature, aircomposition, and forward the data to control device 138. Additionalsensors 136 are preferably located inside and outside outer casing 190of transportation apparatus 104 to measure parameters such as pressure,temperature, air composition, for example, and to forward the data tocontrol device 138.

Said control device 138 may, for example, compare the parameter valuesreceived from sensors 135, 136 with predetermined parameter values andactivate extinguishing agent 132 or release said agent into the interiorof transportation apparatus 104 if the received values exceed or fallbelow the predetermined values. Control device 138 preferably reportsthe parameter values received to the vehicle driver, who is also able toinitiate release of extinguishing agent 132 from the extinguishingdevice.

FIG. 5 shows a transportation apparatus 105 for hazardous material 201,particularly for a lithium-ion battery cell, with at least one holdingapparatus 202 for holding the hazardous material. Holding apparatus 202comprises an accommodation space 203 that is divided into twocompartments by separating wall 207, which is constructed as a separateelement and comprises barrier device 204. Holding apparatus 202 is alsofurnished with a hood element 206 which in this case particularly isformed by a barrier device 205, but may also be designed differently,said barrier device comprising at least a first material and at leastone second material. Barrier devices 204 and 205 may each be constructedin accordance with one of the embodiments of FIGS. 6 a to 6 d. In thiscase, hood element 206 is detachable from base plate 208 and in theillustration may be joined therewith via an optional fastening device209 that may consist of clamps or bars.

FIGS. 6 a to 6 d each show an embodiment of a barrier device,particularly as a frame, a casing or a wall of the transportationapparatus of the invention, particularly according to FIGS. 1 to 5

In the embodiment of FIG. 6 a, first layer 211 and optional third layer213 of a layer system 210 each comprise an aluminium foil that facesrespectively toward the accommodation space (first layer) and thesurrounding environment (third layer). This layer may in particularserve to reflect heat, thereby helping to protect the environment or theaccommodation space or the second protective layer. Second layer 212comprises or consists of a fibre composite material, in particular afire-proof, glass fibre-containing polyamide with short-term thermalresistance up to 300° C. (polyamide 66/6T with 60% glass fibre; PA 66/6TGF60). Said layer system is sufficiently heat resistant for manyrequirements, it is mechanically stable, bullet-proof andexplosion-resistant and has relatively low density, so that theresulting transportation apparatus is safe, but has a relatively low netweight. Second layer 212 preferably also comprises or consists ofpolyphthalamide (e.g., polyphthalamide protected against fire with 33%glass fibre; PPA GF33 V0).

In the embodiment of FIG. 6 b, first layer 211 and optional third layer213 of a layer system 210 each comprise an aluminium foil that facesrespectively toward the accommodation space or the surroundingenvironment. Second layer 212 comprises a fibre composite material (orconsists thereof), namely Zylon®, which is preferably insulated from theenvironment in fluid- and gas-tight manner by the other layers. Thislayer system exhibits good thermal resistance, is mechanically stable,impact and explosion-resistant and is exceptionally lightweight, so thatthe resulting transportation apparatus is safe, but has a relatively lownet weight.

In the embodiment of FIG. 6 c, first layer 211 and third layer 213 of alayer system 210 each comprise an aluminium foil that faces respectivelytoward the accommodation space or the surrounding environment. Secondlayer 212′ comprises a first sublayer 212 a made from a fibre compositematerial, namely Kevlar®, and a second sublayer 212 b made from sheetsteel (thickness 2.0 mm for example), which are bonded together. Thehigh tensile strength of Kevlar® lends the second sub-layer, the steelfor example, greater explosion resistance for example, so that the twosublayers complement and/or protect one another and thus offer asynergistic effect for example.

In the embodiment of FIG. 6 d, first layer 211 of a layer system 210comprises (or consists of) an aluminium foil that faces toward theaccommodation space, and a third layer 213′ made of Dyneema, which facestoward the surrounding environment. Second layer 212″ comprises a firstsublayer 212 a′ made from ceramic-fibre composite material, namelycontaining SiC, for example CVI-SiC/SiC, and a second sublayer 212 bmade from sheet steel (thickness 2.0 mm for example), which are bondedtogether. The high tensile strength of ceramic-fibre composite materiallends the second sublayer, the steel, greater explosion resistance, sothat the two sublayers complement or protect one another and thus offera synergistic effect for example.

REFERENCE SIGNS

-   100, 102, 104, 105 Transportation apparatus-   110, 160 Base plate, bottom plate-   120 Frame with barrier device-   130 Closure device, lid-   132 Extinguishing agent-   134 Activation device-   135, 136 Sensors-   138 Control device-   140 Receptacle-   142 Filler material-   144 Casing-   150, 201 Hazardous material-   170 Catch basin-   172 Spacing device(s)-   180 Gas extraction apparatus-   190 Outer casing-   210 Side wall with barrier device-   202 Holding apparatus-   203 Accommodation space-   204, 205 Barrier device-   206 Hood element-   207 Partition wall-   208 Base plate-   209 Fastening device-   210 Layer system-   211 First layer-   212′ Second layer-   213, 213′ Third layer-   212 a, 212 a′ First sublayer-   212 b, 212 b′ Second sublayer

1. A transportation apparatus for hazardous materials including at leastone electrochemical energy storage apparatus, for transporting,recovering, storing and holding electrochemical storage apparatusesincluding lithium-ion cells or lithium-ion batteries, comprising: atleast one holding apparatus for holding the hazardous material, whichcomprises at least one accommodation space; and at least one barrierdevice that shields at least sections of the accommodation space in atleast one direction, wherein the barrier device comprises at least onefirst material and at least one second material, and at least one of thefirst or second materials comprises or forms a fiber composite.
 2. Thetransportation apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the barrierdevice comprises a first layer made from the first material and a secondlayer made from the second material.
 3. The transportation apparatusaccording to claim 1, wherein the second material comprises fiberstructural elements including glass fibres.
 4. (canceled)
 5. Thetransportation apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the secondmaterial comprises aramid fibers.
 6. The transportation apparatusaccording to claim 1, wherein the first material is a metallic materialand the second material is a fiber composite material.
 7. Thetransportation apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the barrierdevice is constructed as a wall or wall panel of the holding apparatusand is bullet-proof in accordance with a resistance class defined inEuropean Standard EN
 1522. 8. The transportation apparatus according toclaim 1, wherein the transportation apparatus comprises a safety deviceincluding a fire extinguishing device.
 9. A method of use of atransportation apparatus according to claim 1, comprising: at least oneof transporting or recovering, a fresh-from-factory, used or defectiveelectrical energy storage apparatus.
 10. The method of use according toclaim 9, wherein the electrochemical energy storage apparatus is alithium-ion cell.
 11. The method of use according to claim 9, whereinthe transporting is performed via air freight.